hickory historic preservation commission · jill patton, ward 6 . 4 design review guidelines...

Hickory Historic Preservation Commission

Design Review Guidelines

Hickory Historic Preservation Commission 3

Acknowledgements

Architectural illustrations generously provided by Greg Schauble.

Approved by Hickory Historic Preservation Commission June 25, 2019

Members:

Amelia Stafford, Chair

Katherine Mull, Vice Chair

Tom Dobbins

Sam Hunt

Simon Lucas

Kim Menzies

Mary Moorer

Dale Rockensuess

Ernie Sills

Approved by Hickory City Council August 6, 2019

Members:

Hank Guess, Mayor

Brad Lail, Ward 1

Charlotte Williams, Ward 2

Danny Seaver, Ward 3

David Williams, Ward 4

David Zagaroli, Ward 5

Jill Patton, Ward 6

4 Design Review Guidelines (August 6, 2019)

Table of Contents

SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 5

1.1 Introduction to Historic Preservation in Hickory ...................................................... 5 1.2 Hickory Historic Preservation Commission ............................................................... 5 1.3 The Design Review Process .......................................................................................... 6 1.4 Certificate of Appropriateness Flow Chart ................................................................ 7 1.5 Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation .......................................... 8 1.6 Evaluating Projects: Eight Statutory Factors ............................................................ 9

SECTION 2 SITE AND SETTING ................................................................................................. 10

2.1 Public Spaces and Building Sites ............................................................................... 10 2.2 Walkways, Driveways, and Off-street Parking ........................................................ 10 2.3 Fences and Walls ......................................................................................................... 11 2.4 Lighting ........................................................................................................................ 12 2.5 Garages, Accessory Buildings, and Pools .................................................................. 12 2.6 Signage ......................................................................................................................... 13 2.7 Small Cell Wireless Facilities ..................................................................................... 13

SECTION 3 CHANGES TO THE BUILDING EXTERIOR ....................................................... 15

3.1 Masonry ....................................................................................................................... 15 3.2 Wood ............................................................................................................................ 16 3.3 Architectural Metals ................................................................................................... 17 3.4 Roofs and Roofing Materials ..................................................................................... 18 3.5 Windows and Doors .................................................................................................... 19 3.6 Entryways, Porches, and Steps .................................................................................. 21 3.7 Artificial Siding ........................................................................................................... 22 3.8 Utilities and Energy Retrofitting ............................................................................... 22 3.9 Accessibility, Health, and Safety Considerations ..................................................... 23

SECTION 4 ADDITIONS AND NEW CONSTRUCTION .......................................................... 25

4.1 Decks ............................................................................................................................ 25 4.2 Additions ...................................................................................................................... 25 4.3 New Construction ........................................................................................................ 26

SECTION 5 RELOCATION AND DEMOLITION ..................................................................... 28

5.1 Relocation .................................................................................................................... 28 5.2 Demolition .................................................................................................................... 28

SECTION 6 APPENDICES............................................................................................................. 30

6.1 Resources for Historic Preservation Information .................................................... 30 6.2 The Special Character of Hickory Historic Districts ............................................... 31 6.3 Architectural Styles Commonly Found in Hickory Historic Districts ................... 34 6.4 Certificate of Appropriateness List of Work ............................................................ 37 6.5 Definitions .................................................................................................................... 41


Section 1 Introduction

1.1 Introduction to Historic Preservation in Hickory

Hickory’s historic districts and landmarks are among the City’s most valued and important assets. The

Historic Overlay zoning district helps to preserve these districts and landmarks by regulating certain

exterior changes to buildings. This publication explains how the regulations work and answers the most

frequently asked questions about living in a historic district. It also provides background about the history

and architecture of Hickory’s Historic District neighborhoods.

In an historic district, certain exterior work, from do it yourself home repairs to major new construction,

must be approved in advance to preserve the neighborhood’s character. Approval is in the form of a

Certificate of Appropriateness issued by the Historic Preservation Commission or the City of Hickory

Planning Staff. The Historic Preservation Commission and Planning Staff must insure that the proposed

changes are consistent with the Design Review Guidelines. This handbook illustrates many of the

recommended methods and techniques contained in the guidelines with the help of sketches and

drawings. In addition we have provided practical information for the property owner to help you plan

home improvements in a manner that will preserve the historic character of your property.

The Commission has adopted as its guidelines the “Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation

and Illustrated Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings” as they apply to the exterior portions of

Historic Properties and Districts. In addition the attached Design Review Guidelines have been tailored to

reflect the special character and particular needs of Hickory’s Historic District Neighborhoods. These

neighborhoods are described in greater detail in Appendix 6.2

1.2 Hickory Historic Preservation Commission

The mission of the Historic Preservation Commission is to safeguard the heritage of the city by

preserving properties that embody important elements of Hickory's cultural, social, economic, political, or

architectural history. The Commission makes recommendations to city council on the designation of local

historic landmarks and districts. The Commission reviews exterior alterations to locally designated

historic properties. The nine City of Hickory residents that make up the commission have a proven

interest, expertise and devotion to Historic Preservation. The Commission currently consists of a

registered architect, two building trades professionals, three historic property owners and three at-large

members.

Commission members and staff are also able to provide technical assistance to property owners interested

in preserving the historic character of their property. The Commission can provide assistance in many

areas, whether it is to provide suggestions or materials or methods to repair decaying soffit material or

provide design assistance on a new addition or providing information about the history of your property.

The Historic Preservation Commission should not be thought of solely as a regulatory body, but also as a

technical assistance board established to assist you in preserving the value of your historic structure and

neighborhood.

As an historic district or local landmark property owner you have certain rights and responsibilities as set

forth in the City of Hickory Land Development Code. You, the property owner, are responsible for

obtaining a Certificate of Appropriateness before beginning certain exterior work to your house or

property. If you are planning a major project, it must be reviewed by the Historic Preservation

Commission at a public hearing where surrounding property owners are notified. By the same token, you

will be notified in advance of projects planned near your property.


1.3 The Design Review Process

If you are considering work to your house or property, you should first contact the Planning Department

at 323-7422 to see if a Certificate of Appropriateness is required. Exterior work on an historic property is

classified into one of following three categories. Appendix 6.4 contains a matrix classifying most

common projects. This section also contains a more thorough explanation of how work is classified.

Ordinary Maintenance and Repair where there is no change in design, material and

appearance does not require a Certificate of Appropriateness.

Minor Work items require a Certificate of Appropriateness that can normally be issued by

Planning Department Staff with little delay if the proposed work is consistent with the Design

Review Guidelines. The staff may not deny an application, but may forward the application

to the Historic Preservation Commission for further review if the work is deemed to be

substantial, inconsistent with the guidelines, or precedent setting in nature.

Major Work items require issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness after design review by

the Historic Preservation Commission. Major work items require a public hearing and the

notification of adjacent property owners. A Certificate of Appropriateness is required before a

Zoning Compliance Permit or Building Permit can be issued.

Application forms and copies of the Design Review Guidelines may be picked up in the Planning

Department or will be mailed to you upon request. There is no application fee for minor work projects.

The application fee for projects requiring a public hearing is set annually by the Hickory City Council.

This fee is designed to defray the costs of advertising the hearing. Planning Department Staff is available

to answer any questions about the application process.

Please attach a detailed written description of the project which specifies the types of materials to be used

to your Certificate of Appropriateness application. Proposed structural alterations or additions will require

elevation drawings. A site plan may be required to show the location of existing and proposed property

improvements if a zoning permit is necessary.

It is important to plan your project well in advance because the review process does require a certain

amount of lead time. To be considered by the Historic Preservation Commission, completed applications

must be received on the last working day of the month prior to the meeting at which it is to be considered.

The Historic Preservation Commission meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. All public

hearings for Certificates of Appropriateness are quasi-judicial in nature and require sworn testimony and

evidence to be presented to the commission.

You have the right to appeal the decisions of the Historic Preservation Commission. You may appeal a

denial of your application for a Certificate of Appropriateness or the approval of a Certificate for someone

else. Appeals are made to the Board of Adjustment. Any appeal must be filed with the Planning Director

in the Planning and Development Department within thirty (30) days of the Historic Preservation

Commission decision. Appeals of the Board of Adjustment are taken to the Superior Court of Catawba

County.

Appeals are in the nature of “certiorari,” a legal term meaning that if an aggrieved party feels that the

Commission did not follow its rules and procedures properly in reaching its decision they can ask the

Board of Adjustment to look at the record of the meeting to determine whether or not the Commission

found sufficient factual evidence to support its decision.


1.4 Certificate of Appropriateness Flow Chart


1.5 Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation

The following sections of the Design Review Guidelines recommend methods for cleaning, repairs,

replacement and new construction for historic district and local landmark property owners. The

recommended methods, illustrations and examples are based on the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards

for Rehabilitation and Illustrated Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings, but have been modified

to meet the requirements of the citizens of Hickory. The Historic Preservation Commission does have the

right to make further modifications, to be applied in a reasonable manner, based on economic or technical

feasibility of a particular situation. However, for a historic property to be eligible for tax credits, it must

meet the full requirements of the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.

We begin this part of the manual with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for rehabilitation, since

they provide the framework for the Guidelines used in Hickory’s historic districts.

1 A property shall be used for its historic purpose or be placed in a new use that requires minimal

change to the defining characteristics of the building and its site and environment.

2 The historic character of a property shall be retained and preserved. The removal of historic

materials or alteration of features and spaces that characterize a property shall be avoided.

3 Each property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use. Changes that

create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features or architectural

elements from other buildings, shall not be undertaken.

4 Most properties change over time; those changes that have acquired historic significance in their

own right shall be retained and preserved.

5 Distinctive features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship that

characterize a historic property shall be preserved.

6 Deteriorated historic features shall be repaired rather than replaced. Where the severity of

deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature shall match the old in

design, color, texture, and other visual qualities and, where possible, materials. Replacement of

missing features shall be substantiated by documentary, physical, or pictorial evidence.

7 Chemical or physical treatments, such as sandblasting, that cause damage to historic materials

shall not be used. The surface cleaning of structures, if appropriate, shall be undertaken using the

gentlest means possible.

8 Significant archeological resources affected by a project shall be protected and preserved. If such

resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures shall be undertaken.

9 New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction shall not destroy historic materials

that characterize the property. The new work shall be differentiated from the old and shall be

compatible with the massing, size, scale, and architectural features to protect the historic integrity

of the property and its environment.

10 New additions and adjacent or related new construction shall be undertaken in such a manner that

if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of the historic property and its

environment would be unimpaired.


1.6 Evaluating Projects: Eight Statutory Factors

An element is incongruous with the special character of the district if it is significantly different from

what is found on similar buildings in the vicinity or throughout the district. The standard in North

Carolina is that Historic Preservation Commissions shall make no requirements except to prevent work

that is obviously incongruous or out of character with the district as a whole or the landmark.

1 Height

2 Setback and placement

Lot coverage

Yards

Orientation, positioning of the building

Spacing

3 Materials

Wood, aluminum, vinyl, brick, stone, combination

Surface textures (rough, smooth, reflective, non-reflective)

Patterns (regular, irregular, obvious and highly visible, subtle, random, repetitive)

4 Architectural detailing

Simple, complex, traditional, vernacular, high-style

Window and door surrounds (simple, unadorned, complex, elaborate)

Decorative details (relatively few, many)

Lintels, cornices, brick bond, foundation materials

5 Roof shapes, forms, materials

Shape (square, rectangular, simple, complex)

Forms (shed, gable, gambrel, hip, mansard, flat, high pitch, moderate pitch, low pitch)

Features (cupolas, chimneys, dormers, turrets, gutters, vents, cornices, brackets)

Equipment (skylights, solar panels, HVAC, antennas)

Materials (wood shingle, asphalt shingle, clay tile, slate, rolled, galvanized metal, tin)

6 Fenestration (window and door openings)

Proportions (large, small, moderate in size)

Shapes (horizontal, vertical, rectangular, square, arched, round, regular, irregular)

Position and location (comparable, different from similar buildings in the district)

Pattern (style, materials, form, regular, orderly, complex, simple, random)

7 General form and proportions of buildings and structures

Form proportion (stories, essentially horizontal, essentially vertical)

Shape or plan (rectangular, square, irregular, with offsets, without offsets, porches)

8 Appurtenant features and fixtures: Lighting, walls, fences

Lighting fixtures and features (pathway, entrance, garage, landscape, spot, security, location,

materials, wiring, location, arming, shielding)

Walls and fences (materials, length, height, character, overall appearance, placement)

Mailboxes (location)


Section 2 Site and Setting

2.1 Public Spaces and Building Sites

An improved environment includes any gardens, parks, parking lots, or any other proposed outside

improvements, such as planted vegetation, public street furniture, sidewalks, signage, or any other

appurtenant features. Trees and other landscaping features are important to the overall character of the

district. These features are those which define, service, or surround the site of the building or streetscape

and should be given the same considerations as the structure or area itself. The city of Hickory and the

utility companies should take extra care when pruning the trees to protect utility lines, sidewalks, etc. The

features can enhance and add a finishing touch to a project. Neglecting appurtenant features may result in

a reduction of the entire district’s quality. In fact, the district’s character is the product of these elements.

Proper care and maintenance should be provided to landscape areas. Additionally, strategic “gateways”

or entrances should be identified and landscaped in a manner which symbolizes the districts. It should be

noted that the Hickory Historic Preservation Commission does not have the authority to regulate

landscape features. Guidelines related to trees and landscape features are purely advisory in nature.

However, in certain instances, the Commission may require the provision of landscaping or screening in

order to ensure that certain changes to a historic building or site are congruous with the district or

landmark. An example of this would be requiring the installation or retention of shrubs to screen a

modern accessory structure placed in a rear or side yard.

1 It is recommended that mature trees and other landscape features, such as sloping terrains, remain

intact and undisturbed whenever possible.

2 When older vegetation requires replacement, size of the new materials in relation to the

immediately surrounding environment should be considered. New plant materials should be

congruous with the character of the neighborhood.

3 Retain planting strips between sidewalk and street. Consider placement and type of trees to avoid

damage to sidewalks, curbs, retaining walls, foundations, etc.

4 It is recommended that trash containers and dumpsters be screened from public view.

5 It is recommended that benches, trash receptacles, fountains, or the like be designed to enhance

and blend with the surroundings.

6 It is not appropriate to introduce contemporary equipment including, but not limited to, satellite

dishes, solar collectors, playground equipment, mechanical units, and storage units in locations

that compromise the historic character of the building or district. Such features and equipment

should be located unobtrusively and screened from view.

7 Placement of new mailboxes at curbside or in location other than the front wall or porch of a

property is not permitted in the historic districts.

2.2 Walkways, Driveways, and Off-street Parking

1 Single-lane driveways are preferred in the front yard along a side property line for residential

properties. If a wider driveway is desired, it should be provided at the rear of the lot. Driveway

widths should generally be in harmony with the surrounding area. Planting strips should be left

between driveways and adjacent property lines.

2 It is recommended that driveways not be constructed or extended in front of a present or former

residential structure (between the structure and the public right-of-way).


3 Driveways should be designed to minimize changes to existing historical materials and features,

such as retaining walls, walkways, and major landscaping. Avoid paving in the drip line area

under large evergreens and paving more than 20% of the drip line area under large deciduous

trees.

4 Maintain walks and pathways in their original state as closely as possible. Widths and materials

should harmonize with the neighborhood.

5 Maintain sidewalks in such a manner as not to disturb vegetation.

6 Pathways and walkways giving access to buildings should be serviceable and relate to building in

scale, width, placement and material.

7 Preserve details, such as original granite curbstones, brick pavers, rock, etc.

8 Commercial parking lots were historically located in the rear yards of buildings. New commercial

parking areas should be designed to minimize their impact on the existing environment and be

placed behind buildings, if possible, or to the side and screened from view using landscaping.

9 Areas for circulation and parking should be clearly defined. Edges within these areas should be

clearly defined using appropriate markings and materials.

10 Landscaping should be used to visually reduce the impact of off-street parking lots. Large

expanses of paving should be broken up into smaller components with interior planting areas.

11 When new parking lots are being developed, existing vegetation such as mature trees, should be

retained and incorporated into the landscape plan.

NOTE: Historic property owners may apply for a waiver or reduction of the off-street parking

requirements. The Historic Preservation Commission and the Board of Adjustment would both

need to review the application. For more information please contact the City of Hickory Planning

Department.

2.3 Fences and Walls

1 Fences and walls that contribute to the character of the district should be maintained and

preserved.

2 The use of materials similar to that which were originally used in the district, such as brick, stone,

cast iron, or wood is recommended.

3 Size, height, scale, material, and location need to be considered when creating a new fenced or

walled area. Avoid any new fence which would not contribute to the character of the district, such

as split rail fencing.

4 Chain link fencing should be confined to the rear and screened from view.

5 Heights of new fences and walls should be consistent with the height of existing fences in the

immediate vicinity.

6 Good construction methods should be used when constructing or repairing fences so they won’t

sag, lean, or fall down.

7 It is recommended that fences be designed so that there are not long unbroken expanses of wood

or brick.


2.4 Lighting

1 Low level lighting should be located at the public/private edge for pedestrian safety.

2 Retain original lighting fixtures whenever possible.

3 Lighting fixtures should be compatible in style, size, scale, and material with the character of the

structure and neighborhood.

4 Along public streets in the historic districts, the Commission encourages the installation of

decorative lighting fixtures of pedestrian scale, uniform spacing and with underground wiring.

5 Detached lighting fixtures should be hidden from view as much as possible unless they are

intended to be decorative elements appropriate to the architectural style.

6 Modern exterior light fixtures such as flood lights should be placed in inconspicuous locations

where they cannot easily be seen from the street.

2.5 Garages, Accessory Buildings, and Pools

The garage apparently evolved from carriage barns which were modified to store an automobile as well as

a carriage. The earliest true garages were simple frame structures with no floor, which could

accommodate a single automobile and little else. Gradually they became more substantial structures and

sometimes provided living quarters for servants. They could be distinctive, often matching the

architecture of the house. A surprising number of original garages and even a few carriage barns survive

in the historic districts and provide models for new garages.

1 Historically significant outbuildings (storage buildings, garages, carports, greenhouses, gazebos,

sheds), especially those noted in the National Register of Historic Places Inventory, should be

preserved and treated as historic structures.

2 Garages and outbuildings should generally follow the guidelines for Architectural Design

Elements.

3 Garages and outbuildings should be freestanding structures unattached and sited to the rear of

main buildings. Attached carports may be considered appropriate on certain post-1945 homes.

4 It is recommended that metal utility sheds, metal carports, and metal garages be located in the

rear yard and screened from public view.

5 Pools are modern amenities which should be screened from public right-of-way and adjacent

properties by vegetation or appropriate fencing to reduce the intrusive effect on the character of

the neighborhood.

6 Pools should be located only in the rear yard. On corner lots, pools should be located in the

portion of the rear yard farthest from the street.

7 Fencing for screening or pool safety should be in compliance with the guidelines for fences and

walls.

8 Pools should be designed to minimize the impact on the existing environment, including mature

trees.


2.6 Signage

Outdoor advertising signs are an important visual element at designated landmarks and in historic

districts, and should be in harmony with the structure, site and neighborhood. While the City’s sign

ordinance is tailored for today’s auto-oriented businesses, the buildings in the historic districts and the

designated landmarks were built when walking was the prominent form of travel. The following

guidelines seek to satisfy the legitimate needs of commerce without visual clutter, obstruction of public

views, or obscuring architectural details of historic buildings. Signs on historic properties must conform

to the codes and ordinances of the City of Hickory.

1 Introduce new signage that is compatible in material, size, scale, and character with the building

or district. Design signage to enhance the architectural character of the building.

2 Wall signs should be integrated in the building’s façade. It is not appropriate to cover a large

portion of the façade or any significant architectural features with signage.

3 At locations where more than one business is located, signs should be of consistent and

compatible design.

4 Signs should only be illuminated by screened ground-level spotlights. Backlit signs and

internally-illuminated signs are discouraged.

5 Wood, stone and metal are preferred materials. Synthetic materials that are of high quality and

mimic the design and appearance of wood, stone, or metal may be used.

6 Flush mounted flat signs are recommended. Major architectural details or ornamental features

should not be interrupted or covered. On masonry buildings, holes for fasteners should be placed

in the mortar joints, not the masonry unit.

7 Building numbers and bronze identification plaques should be mounted so as not to obscure

architectural features and details.

2.7 Small Cell Wireless Facilities

Small cell wireless facilities are the next generation of broadband infrastructure being deployed by

wireless providers to meet a growing demand for faster speed and greater data availability. Small cell

facilities use a different radio frequency output, footprint, and range compared to traditional cell towers,

also known as, macro cell facilities. Most small cell wireless facilities will be located on utility poles or

small towers located within the public street right-of-way to cover small, but densely populated areas.

While this infrastructure is necessary to meet the next generation of wireless technology, known as 5G,

careful placement of these facilities is necessary to maintain the character of historic districts and

landmarks.

1 Collocation of small cell wireless facilities on existing buildings and structures, including traffic

signals, street lights, utility poles, and flag poles, is preferred over the installation of new stand-

alone poles.

2 If new poles are necessary, the alignment, spacing, materials, size, height, and overall appearance

should closely match existing pole structures in the area, such as traffic signals, street lights, and

utility poles. A decorative base for new metal poles is encouraged.

3 In areas with both metal and wooden pole infrastructure present, new small cell wireless poles

using metal are preferred.

4 New small cell wireless poles should function as street lights.


5 Small cell wireless facilities should not be located in a manner that obstructs the direct line of

sight between the front of a building and the street. Facilities should be located between building

frontages.

6 Antennas necessary for small cell wireless facilities should not exceed the height of the pole

structure they are attached to by more than five (5) feet. Antennas should be minimized in overall

size and should incorporate stealth measures on new or replacement poles.

7 Equipment associated with small cell wireless facilities, including but not limited to remote radio

units (RRUs), cabinets, and cables, should be fully concealed inside new or replacement poles or

use other stealth measures. Associated equipment should closely match the appearance of the

pole. Associated equipment should not excessively protrude in width or height from the pole and

should be minimized in overall size. Ground mounted equipment should be limited and when

necessary, it should not conflict with existing utilities.

8 If ground or low mounted equipment is necessary, the equipment should be screened through

landscaping of sufficient height or other concealment measures. Locating equipment underground

is encouraged.


Section 3 Changes to the Building Exterior

3.1 Masonry

Brick is one of the most frequently occurring masonry building materials found in the City of Hickory

Historic Overlay Districts. Other types of masonry materials are present throughout the District, but with

fewer examples. Older brick walls have certain characteristics which should be preserved and enhanced.

With age, a brick wall develops a patina, which is a definite maintenance advantage over wood siding.

Brick is laid in a pattern known as bond, a method of laying brick with headers and stretchers exposed at

the face of the wall. Bond previously served the purpose of providing stability of brick construction, yet

today, it has become more of an aesthetic consideration through its patter of order and repetition.

The repointing of mortar joints involves the removal of old mortar to replace with new mortar. Repointing

is necessary when moisture problems are evident or when there is sufficient mortar missing to cause water

to stand in the mortar joints. Mortar composed of a high Portland cement content is not recommended for

repointing. This will often create a mortar that is stronger than the existing masonry. This is a potential

source of deterioration as the new mortar will bond too strongly to the existing masonry. To avoid giving

the building a strange, unnatural appearance, colored sands or mineral pigmented mortar mixtures can be

used to help match new mortar to original mortar. Organic or chemical pigments are not recommended

since they may fade.

Brick surfaces may have been painted or white-washed for practical or aesthetic reasons. Indiscriminate

paint removal may subject the building to harmful damage and may

give the surface an unauthentic appearance. Additionally, cement

coatings applied to brick foundations or other masonry eventually

break loose, usually removing the protective brick face in the process.

These coatings also hide the texture and detail of chimney and

foundation brick.

Cleaning brick should only be undertaken to stop deterioration, not as

a result of the effects of weathering. The use of low pressure water

and soft natural brushes are recommended. Chemical cleaners are

only to be used after a spot test has demonstrated that the chemicals

will not have an adverse reaction with the masonry. Sandblasting and

water-blasting erode the protective skin from the surface and leave

the core of the material open to moisture penetration. Waterproof and

water repellent coatings are generally unnecessary, expensive, and

can accelerate deterioration. Deteriorated brick should be repointed

duplicating existing bond, brick size, color, and width of joint.

Masonry materials commonly found in the historic districts include:

brick, stone, terra cotta, concrete, and stucco. Brick is the most

frequently occurring masonry building material and is found in all of

the districts. Other types of masonry materials are exhibited throughout the districts, but with fewer

examples.

1 Retain all original or early masonry materials whenever possible.

2 If it is necessary to repair or replace deteriorated masonry, it should be with products that

duplicate the existing materials as closely as possibly in appearance, texture, and color.

3 Deteriorated brick should be repointed duplicating existing bond, brick size, color, and width of

joint.


4 New masonry materials which are appropriate are cast stone (dry-tamped), glass fiber-reinforced

concretes, precast concrete, and fiber-reinforced polymers. Specifically not recommended is the

use of artificial brick siding, artificial cast stone, and portland cement.

5 Cleaning masonry is recommended only when it is determined that the “dirt” is actually

accumulated deposits and not simply the effects of weathering.

6 Masonry should be cleaned with the gentlest methods possible, such as the low pressure water

and soft natural brushes. Chemical cleaners are acceptable, provided they are used only after a

spot test demonstrates that they will not have an adverse affect upon the masonry material.

7 Sandblasting with either wet or dry abrasives is not recommended. This method erodes the

surface of the building material and will accelerate deterioration of the masonry. The use of

chemical cleaners is an acceptable alternative; however, please contact City of Hickory staff for

more technical information on these chemicals and their possible hazards.

8 Duplicate old or existing mortar in composition, color, and texture. Repointing with a mortar

composed of a high portland cement content is not recommended as its strength is usually greater

than that of the existing masonry and will not expand and contract with temperature changes in

the same way that the original masonry does. The resulting stress on the original masonry will

cause it to crumble.

9 If repointing work is carefully executed, there will be little excess mortar to clean from walls. A

conscientious mason will remove most mortar particles with a bristle brush after the mortar dries,

but before it hardens. Hardened mortar can be removed with a wooden paddle or, if necessary, a

chisel.

10 The Commission discourages the painting of existing masonry structures which have not been

previously painted.

11 Remove paint from masonry with great care. Test patches should be done first to determine if the

paint may be removed successfully without damaging the masonry.

Warning: Lead in old paint can be a health hazard during paint removal. Paint chips from

sanding or fumes from burning off paint can be dangerous if ingested or breathed. Contact the

Historic Preservation Commission staff liaison for further information.

12 All masonry architectural features (cornices, moldings, etc.) should be retained as they are

significant parts of structures and contribute to their character. If these details are missing, and if

it is determined by research that they existed, the Commission encourages their replacement with

identical or similar compatible elements.

13 Permanently removing an original stucco finish is inappropriate.

14 Repair stucco with a mixture duplicating the original as closely as possible in composition, color,

texture, style, and character. It is not recommended to repoint or repair with mortar or portland

cement content which is harder or stronger than the existing building material.

15 Avoid applying stucco finish to a building on which such finish would be incongruous.

16 It is recommended to use only the gentlest cleaning methods on stucco finishes.

3.2 Wood

Because it can be easily shaped by sawing, planing, carving and gouging, wood is used for architectural

features such as clapboard, cornices, brackets, entablatures, shutters, columns, and balustrades. These


wooden features, both functional and decorative, may be important in

defining the historic character of the building and thus, their retention,

protection, and repair are important in rehabilitation projects.

Wood has played a central role in American buildings during every

period and in every style. Whether as structural supports, exterior

cladding, roofing, interior finishes, or decorative features, wood is

frequently an essential component of historic buildings.

1 It is recommended that all original or existing wood siding and

wooden architectural features be retained whenever possible.

2 Repairs or replacement for any deteriorated wood materials

should match the existing in size, shape, material and texture.

3 Historic structures, as well as accessory structures, should be

appropriately painted or finished with a material that is congruous

with the structure and the surrounding neighborhood.

4 When certain wooden architectural features are no longer

produced or are deemed economically unfeasible by the Historic

Preservation Commission, substitute materials (i.e., fiberglass,

plastic molding, etc.) may be appropriate if they are matching in

appearance and texture.

5 It is recommended that whenever artificial materials, such as asphalt shingles and vinyl siding,

are removed, they should be replaced with materials matching the original wood in appearance

and texture.

3.3 Architectural Metals

Architectural metal features, such as cast iron façades, porches and steps, sheet metal cornices, siding,

roofs, roof cresting and storefronts, and cast or rolled metal doors, window sash, entablatures, and

hardware, are often highly decorative and may be important in defining the overall historic character of

the building. Metals commonly used in historic buildings include lead, tin, zinc, copper, bronze, brass,

iron, steel, and to a lesser extent, nickel alloys, stainless steel, and aluminum. Historic metal building

components were often created by highly-skilled local artisans, and by the later 19th Century, many of

these components were prefabricated and readily available from catalogs in standardized sizes and

designs.

1 Original architectural metals should be retained. Removal of these features often destroys the

structure’s character and, therefore, is not recommended.

2 The Commission recommends the cleaning of architectural metals by appropriate methods. Cast

iron may be cleaned by mechanical methods. Pressed tin and aluminum should be cleaned by the

gentlest methods possible such as detergent, water, and soft bristled brushes.

3 Radically changing the type of finish or its historic accent scheme is not recommended.

4 It is recommended that any feature damaged beyond repair be replaced in like kind or with

material that matches the original in design, size and appearance.


3.4 Roofs and Roofing Materials

The roof – with its shape; features such as cresting, dormers, cupolas, and chimneys; and the size, color,

and patterning of the roofing material – is an important design element of many historic buildings. In

addition, a weather tight roof is essential to the long term preservation of the entire structure. Historic

roofing reflects availability of materials, levels of construction technology, weather, and cost. For

example, throughout the country in all periods of history, wood shingles have been used – their size,

shape, and detailing differing according to regional craft practices.

European settlers used clay tile for roofing as early as the mid-17th century. In some cities, such as New

York and Boston, clay was popularly used as a precaution against fire. The Spanish influence in the use of

clay tiles is found in the southern, southwestern, and western states. In the mid-19th century, tile roofs

were often replaced by sheet-metal, which is lighter and easier to maintain. The use of slate as a roofing

material dates from the mid-17th century. Slate has remained popular for its durability, fireproof qualities,

and decorative applications. The use of metals for roofing and roof features dates from the 18th century,

and includes the use of sheet iron, corrugated iron, galvanized metal, tinplate, copper, lead, and zinc.

Most properties in the Hickory historic districts have asphalt shingle roofs. Awareness of these and other

traditions of roofing materials and their detailing will contribute to more sensitive treatment.

The historic districts and landmarks exhibit a variety of roof shapes. Some of the most common roof

types are:

1 As roofs are one of the most important visual features of a building, the existing roof shape

should be preserved. All architectural features that give a roof its essential character (dormer

windows, cupolas, cornices, brackets, chimneys, and crestings) should be retained. Roof

equipment and alterations (such as skylights, solar panels, power ventilators, and television

antennas) should be located on rear slopes or inconspicuous where they are not easily visible

from public view.

2 Whenever possible, the existing original roofing material should be retained. The application of

new roofing material that is inappropriate to the style and period of the building or surrounding


structures is not recommended. A deteriorated roof covering should be replaced with new

materials that match the existing in composition material.

3 It is recommended that metal roof materials be protected from pitting, streaking, rust and

corrosion. For information on recommended methods please contact the City of Hickory Planning

Department.

4 If new gutters or downspouts are required, they should be installed so that no architectural

features are lost or damaged.

5 In order to prevent roof deterioration and damage, gutters and downspouts should be cleaned and

maintained regularly.

6 It is recommended that deteriorated roofing materials be replaced with materials matching the

original. If alternative materials are required, they should match the original in shape, size and

design so as not to change the appearance of the structure.

7 Remove asbestos shingles from the roof with great care.

Warning: Asbestos in old shingles can be a health hazard during removal. Asbestos dust can be

dangerous if breathed. Contact the City of Hickory Planning staff for further information.

8 Chimneys are significant features of historic properties and should be preserved whenever

possible. They should be repaired or rebuilt rather than shortened or removed when they become

deteriorated.

9 Special care should be taken to ensure that the repairs blend in. Chimney stacks should not be

stuccoed above the foundation as a means of stabilizing weak masonry.

10 Non-original chimneys may be removed if the appearance of the structure will otherwise remain

unchanged.

11 Wooden boxed chimneys and exposed metal vent pipes are not appropriate where easily visible

from a street.

12 New chimneys should be congruous with the original structure and the surrounding

neighborhood.

13 It is not appropriate for antennae to be attached to chimneys in a way that would cause damage or

deterioration.

3.5 Windows and Doors

Windows add light to the interior of a building, provide ventilation, and allow a visual link to the outside.

At the same time windows help to define a building’s particular style through the rhythm, patterns, size,

proportions, and ratios of solids (walls) and voids (windows and doors). There is a variety of architectural

styles and periods of construction within the historic district. Likewise, there is a corresponding variation

of styles, types, and size of windows.

Doors vary as much as windows and help to define a building’s particular style through the size,

proportions and materials. Doors serve to allow access to the interior of a building. They also, in

association with porches and entrances, may be decorated and ceremonial. Doors on secondary façades

tend to be simpler and more utilitarian but also help define the character of the building. Outbuildings,

too, can have character defining doors. Windows and doors are important architectural elements. The

historic character of a structure can be adversely affected by the alteration of these elements.


In addition, awnings, shutters, and storm windows and doors can add to the character of historic

properties while increasing their energy efficiency. On commercial buildings the canvas awning is often

an important design element that provides cover, adds color and serves as a transition between the

storefront and the upper façade. Awnings are most appropriate for late and post-Victorian house styles –

especially Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Bungalow, Spanish and the many period-revival styles.

Installing both awnings and shutters on a building is generally not appropriate.

1 The original window and door openings, their size and dimensions should be retained, especially

on front and side street façades, unless restoring the appearance of the structure to its original

design. Also, important elements pertaining to the windows and doors, such as sashes, lintels,

sills, and architraves should be retained.

2 The repair of existing original windows and doors is encouraged. If replacement of a window or

door element is necessary, the replacement should be compatible with the architectural style of

the structure and match the original as closely as possible.

3 It is recommended that new window or door openings match the pattern, style, location, and

appearance of the architectural period of the structure and the surrounding district.

4 Whenever possible, the existing original door and window materials should be retained. The

application of new material to original doors or windows on principal elevations that are

inappropriate to the style and period of the building or surrounding structures in the district is not

recommended. A deteriorated window and door should be replaced with new materials that match

the existing in composition and material.

5 If additional windows and doors are necessary to accommodate a new or expanded use, they

should be installed on a rear or non-character defining façade of the building.

6 Snap in muntins may be deemed appropriate upon individual review to determine that the size

and pattern of the muntins are congruous with the existing patterns and sizes on the structure or

surrounding structures.

7 It is recommended that replacement shutters be constructed of wood or a similar material.

Shutters made of an alternative material should match the original in appearance, texture, and

design.

8 Original windows and door elements should not be destroyed when storm windows or doors are

installed.

9 Storm windows and doors should blend in with the building rather than appear to be tacked on.

The shape and general appearance should match the existing window or door as closely as

possible. Storm doors and windows should be full view or sectioned in an unobtrusive manner so

as not to obscure or distort the existing window or door. Storm windows should have a meeting

rail which aligns with the meeting rail of the window to which it is applied.

10 Storm doors should be detachable.

11 Raw metal storm window and door frames are discouraged as raw metal conflicts with traditional

building material finishes. Traditional wood, baked enamel, or painted storm windows are

preferable alternatives to raw metal. Raw metal storm doors may be appropriate on certain post

1945 buildings.

12 Whenever possible, the Commission encourages the placement of storm windows on the interior

side of the existing windows.

13 The use of both awnings and shutters for window openings is not appropriate.


14 For residential usage, the three most common awning materials are canvas, vinyl coated canvas

and acrylic. Metal awnings are inappropriate for any style other than post-Second World War

homes.

15 Awnings should generally be mounted within the window opening, directly on the frame. If this

is not possible, they should be attached just outside the opening. On masonry structures

attachments for awnings should be made in the mortar joints and not in the brick itself.

16 An awning should reinforce the frame of the storefront and should not cover piers or the space

between the second story window sills and the storefront cornice.

17 Window awnings may be appropriate on upper story windows, but not if shutters are present.

18 Arched awnings are appropriate for arched windows.

19 Commercial awning materials can vary from canvas, vinyl-coated canvas or other appropriate

canvas-like synthetic materials. Aluminum, plastic, or wood shingle awnings generally detract

from the historic character and are not recommended.

3.6 Entryways, Porches, and Steps

Porches are common features of many structures in the Hickory Historic Districts. Their function is to

serve as an extension of living space to the outdoors. They take a variety of shapes and forms, varying

from small one-bay porches to the large wraparound porches of the Victorian Style. Entrances and steps

serve as an important first view to the property and should be preserved as they were originally intended.

Architectural details, such as hand rails, balusters, balustrades, columns, cornices, moldings, finials, etc.,

are important parts of a building. Stripping porches of these details is not recommended. The replacement

of original wood porch floors with concrete is not recommended. Porches have often been filled in to

create interior space. Every attempt should be made to keep porches “open.”

1 Original or existing features of porches, porte cocheres, and entry steps should be retained.

Deteriorated details, such as hand rails, balusters, balustrades, columns, etc. should be repaired or

replaced, matching materials as closely as possible. If alternative materials are required they

should match the original in size, design and shape.

2 Original wood porch floors should be retained.

3 Avoid enclosing porches and where possible, remove any existing infill to restore the original

appearance. If enclosure is necessary, the enclosure should be of a transparent material, such as

glass or screening, which will allow the basic structure to show through. Such enclosures should

be installed behind the original railing and/or columns.

4 The use of artificial turf, indoor/outdoor carpeting, or similar material is not recommended for

covering or partially covering porch floors which are visible from the street.

5 If a feature of an entire entryway or porch is missing, replace it with a new feature based on

documentation of the original or a new design compatible with the historic character of the

building or district.

6 Special care should be taken in installing features to aid the handicapped and disabled. Such

features should be designed so there is minimal visual impact on the structure and, if possible,

should not be visible from the street. The scale, materials and details of these features should be

compatible with the structure and should be designed so that these features may be constructed

and removed with minimum damage to the structure.


3.7 Artificial Siding

As a general policy, the Historic Preservation Commission discourages the use of artificial building

materials in the historic districts. When artificial materials are required, particular attention will be paid to

any special circumstances that make use of artificial siding prudent or necessary. Likewise, the

Commission will carefully scrutinize the application in terms of the effect of the artificial materials on the

building’s historical and architectural integrity, and the effect on the historic district as a whole. The

careful removal of artificial siding materials and restoration of the original siding is encouraged.

For the use of artificial siding (such as aluminum siding, steel siding, vinyl siding, and other plastic or

synthetic siding), the Commission has adopted the following guidelines:

1 The architectural character of the structure should not be lost due to the covering of details and

the removal of features (such as window trim).

2 The artificial materials should be similar in appearance to the original materials used by similar

properties in the district.

3 The substitute material should match the historic materials in size, profile, and finish so that there

is minimal change in the character of the building.

4 The application of artificial siding should not hide underlying problems that could progress

unseen to the point of seriously affecting structural soundness and make necessary future

restoration more difficult and expensive.

5 The artificial siding should be easy to replace and match if a piece is damaged.

6 The contractor should use appropriate application methods and be sensitive to the need to

preserve architectural details.

7 All artificial siding should run in the same direction as the original siding.

8 All decorative architectural detailing should remain uncovered.

9 All existing shutters should be returned to their original location after the siding is applied.

10 All masonry should remain uncovered.

11 The width of the artificial siding should have approximately the same width and shape as the

original siding.

12 Artificial siding should not be installed over rotted wood; all original materials should be repaired

prior to the installation of the artificial siding.

13 Siding materials with a stamped or molded design which imitates masonry or wood grain should

not be used (unless the original siding has a similar grain appearance).

3.8 Utilities and Energy Retrofitting

Some character-defining features of a historic building or site, such as cupolas, shutters, transoms,

skylights, sun rooms, porches, and plantings, also play a secondary, energy-conserving role. Therefore,

prior to retrofitting historic buildings to make them more energy efficient, the first step should always be

to identify and evaluate the existing historic features to assess their inherent energy-conserving potential.

If it is determined that retrofitting measures are necessary, then such work needs to be carried out with

particular care to insure that the building’s character is preserved in the process of rehabilitation.


1 Retain and preserve the inherent energy-conserving features of historic buildings and their sites,

including shade trees, porches, awnings, and operable windows, transoms, shutters, and blinds.

2 Increase the thermal efficiency of historic buildings by observing appropriate traditional

practices, such as weather stripping and caulking, and by introducing energy-efficient features,

such as awnings, operable shutters, and storm windows and doors, where appropriate.

3 If a new mechanical system is needed, install it so that it causes the least amount of alteration to

the building’s exterior facades, historic building fabric, and site features.

4 If desired, introduce narrow-profile exterior or interior storm windows so that they do not obscure

or damage the existing sash and frame. Select exterior storm windows with a painted or baked-

enamel finish color that is compatible with the sash color. Bare aluminum storm windows may be

appropriate for post-1945 buildings. For double-hung windows, operable storm window dividers

should align with the existing meeting rails.

5 If desired, introduce full-light storm doors constructed of wood or aluminum that do not obscure

or damage the existing door and frame. Select storm doors with a painted, stained, or baked-

enamel finish color that is compatible with the color of the existing door. Bare aluminum storm

doors may be appropriate for post-1945 buildings.

6 Replace deteriorated or missing wooden blinds and shutters with matching new units sized to fit

the opening and mounted so that they can be operated.

7 If desired and where historically appropriate, install fabric awnings over window, door,

storefront, or porch openings with care to ensure that historic features are not damaged or

obscured.

8 Locate new mechanical equipment and utilities, including heating and air conditioning units,

meters, exposed pipes, and fuel tanks, in the most inconspicuous area, usually along a building’s

rear facade. Screen them from view.

9 Where possible, locate portable window air-conditioning units on rear facades or inconspicuous

side facades.

10 Install low-profile ridge vents, if desired, only if they will not destroy historic roofing materials

and details.

11 Install ventilators, solar collectors, vehicle charging stations, and mechanical equipment in

locations that do not compromise character-defining building features or in locations that are not

prominently visible from the street.

3.9 Accessibility, Health, and Safety Considerations

Historic properties are not exempt from laws requiring accessibility for persons with disabilities.

Accessibility solutions should be considered that are both sensitive to human needs and respectful of a

property’s significant historic features. The key to a successful project is determining early in the

planning process which areas of the historic property can be altered and to what extent, without causing

loss of significance or integrity.

1 Accessibility measures (lifts, ramps, grade changes) should be designed to meet accessibility

codes without creating a significant visual impact on the historic structure.

2 Ramps and railings should be of simple design, be located where architectural features of the

entrance way or porch are not obscured, and project from the building as little as possible.


3 Unless necessary to comply with accessibility codes, accessibility measures should not negatively

impact or impair the original fabric of a structure, especially its significant features. If a main

entrance cannot be altered without loss of historic significance, then another primary public

entrance should be considered. (Note: Accessibility codes require access by a primary public

entrance.)

4 Fire escapes should be placed at inconspicuous locations if possible, preferably on the rear of the

building. They will generally not be approved for an exposed elevation, such as the exposed side

of a building on a corner lot.


Section 4 Additions and New Construction

4.1 Decks

The outdoor deck is a contemporary exterior feature frequently introduced in the residential historic

districts. Essentially an uncovered, private version of a back porch, the deck can be compared functionally

with a more traditional patio or terrace. To maintain a building’s historic character, deck additions are

generally located unobtrusively on the rear elevation. Decks are usually built on posts to align with the

first-floor level of a residence and can consequently stand considerably above the ground. Like any

addition to a historic building, a deck should be compatible with but differentiated from the building and

constructed to be structurally independent so that it could be removed in the future without damage to the

building. A deck should never be so large that it overpowers the building or the site. Insetting a deck at

least six inches from a building corner also helps to diminish its impact and differentiate it from the

existing building.

1 Locate and construct decks so that the historic fabric of the structure and its character-defining

features and details are not damaged or obscured. Install decks so that they are structurally self-

supporting and may be removed in the future without damage to the historic structure.

2 Minimize the visibility of new residential decks from the street by introducing them in

inconspicuous locations, usually on the building’s rear elevation and inset from the rear corners.

3 Design and detail decks and associated railings and steps to reflect the materials, scale, and

proportions of the building.

4 In rare occasions where it is appropriate to site a deck in a location visible to the public right-of-

way (i.e. the side of a building), it should be treated in a more formally architectural way. Careful

attention should be paid to details and finishes.

5 Align decks generally with the height of the building’s first-floor level. Visually tie the deck to

the building by screening with compatible foundation materials such as skirt boards, lattice,

masonry panels, and dense evergreen foundation plantings.

6 Locate new decks so they do not require removal of a significant building element or site feature

such as a porch or a mature tree.

7 Ensure that new decks are sited and designed so they do not detract from the overall historic

character of the building or the site.

8 Design new decks to be of a size and scale that does not significantly change the proportion of

original built area to open space for a specific property.

9 It is appropriate to implement a tree protection plan prior to the commencement of construction

activities.

4.2 Additions

Over the life of a building, its form may evolve as additional space is needed or new functions are

accommodated. Many buildings in Hickory’s historic districts and some landmarks reflect their history

through the series of previous alterations and additions that they exhibit. Consequently, such changes are

significant to the history of the building and the district as they tell the story of the building's changes

over time. Traditionally, additions were built onto the rear of a building and stepped in from the side walls

as they extended the depth of the building to gain additional living area. Other times, side or rear porches


were enclosed to become conditioned space. Such additions are easy to discern because they extend

beyond the original building footprint with changes in wall planes and, often, rooflines.

New additions are appropriate as long as they do not destroy historic features, materials, and spatial

relationships that are significant to the original building and site. Further, new additions should be

differentiated from the original building and constructed so that they can be removed in the future without

damage to the building

1 Construct additions, if feasible, to be structurally self-supporting to reduce any damage to the

historic building. Sensitively attach them to the historic building so that the loss of historic

materials and details is minimized.

2 Design additions so that the overall character of the site, site topography, character-defining site

features, trees, and significant district vistas and views are retained.

3 Survey in advance and limit any disturbance to the site’s terrain during construction to minimize

the possibility of destroying unknown archaeological resources.

4 Protect large trees and other significant site features from immediate damage during construction

and from delayed damage due to construction activities, such as loss of root area or compaction

of the soil by equipment. It is especially critical to avoid compaction of the soil within the critical

root zone.

5 It is appropriate to implement a tree protection plan prior to the commencement of construction

activities.

6 Additions should be located on an inconspicuous elevation of the historic building, usually the

rear one.

7 The size and the scale of an addition in relationship to the historic building should be limited so

that it does not diminish or visually overpower the building.

8 Additions should be designed to be compatible with the historic building in mass, materials, and

relationship of solids to voids in the exterior walls, yet make the addition discernible from the

original.

9 Design additions so that the placement, configuration, materials, and overall proportion of

windows and doors are compatible with those of the historic building. Select exterior surface

materials and architectural details that are compatible with the existing building in terms of

composition, module, texture, pattern, and detail.

10 It is not appropriate to construct an addition if it will detract from the overall historic character of

the principal building and the site, or if it will require the removal of a significant building

element or site feature.

11 It is not appropriate to construct an addition that significantly changes the proportion of original

built mass to open space on the individual site.

4.3 New Construction

New construction may be contemporary and current in style while at the same time blending in

comfortably with the character of the district. There is no requirement that a new structure attempt to

duplicate any of the existing historical styles in the neighborhood. An exception to this might be a

structure built in close association with an existing structure or structures, such as an outbuilding located

on the same lot where a contemporary design would detract from the architectural unity. New

construction is required to be complementary to the surrounding structures.


1 New construction within the Hickory Historic Districts should have lot coverage similar to that of

existing and/or surrounding buildings in the districts.

2 Setbacks should be uniform and establish a feeling of order and coherence. New structures should

have setbacks consistent with existing buildings on their block. Side yards should also be similar

in size to yards of neighboring buildings.

3 Spacing should conform to the spacing of existing structures within their block.

4 New structures should face the same directions as existing structures within their block.

5 Height should be consistent with the existing buildings on their block.

6 Scale of elements of the new construction should be compatible with existing and/or surrounding

structures within the neighborhood.

7 New construction should be compatible in basic shape and form with existing and/or surrounding

structures within the district.

8 Roof form and pitch for new construction should conform to that of existing structures on the

block. Roofing materials should be compatible with those of existing structures.

9 Architectural design components of the exterior are such things as cornices, lintels, foundation

materials, and chimneys. These design components provide a sense of unity and cohesion within

the district.

10 Architectural components must be compatible with the new building, as well as with surrounding

structures.

11 Within the Hickory Historic Districts the most prevalent building materials used are wood siding,

brick, stone and stucco. Building materials, such as artificial brick or stone, artificial siding,

oversized brick, exposed and/or painted concrete blocks or cinder blocks, and plate glass walls

are not recommended for new construction with the district.

12 Building materials and surface textures should be compatible with those of surrounding

structures.


Section 5 Relocation and Demolition

A Certificate of Appropriateness for the demolition or relocation of a designated local landmark or a

building within a local historic district may not be denied. However, the effective date of such certificates

may be delayed for a period of up to 365 days. Additionally, if the Commission has recommended a

building for designation as a local historic landmark or district, it may delay the demolition for up to 180

days or until City Council takes action on the proposed designation. The Commission may waive all or

part of the delay period if the owner would suffer extreme hardship or be permanently deprived of all

beneficial use of or return from such property by virtue of the delay.

During a delay period, the Commission will study the feasibility of rehabilitating or relocating the

structure, ensure that potential buyers are aware of the threatened demolition, and photographically

document the property. If the Commission finds that a building or site within a district has no special

significance or value toward maintaining the character of the district, it shall waive all or part of such

period and authorize earlier demolition, destruction, or removal.

5.1 Relocation

1 A delay is recommended for the relocation of a designated landmark, for the removal from a

historic district of a primary building listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a pivotal

or contributing structure in the historic district, and for the removal from a historic district of an

outbuilding considered historically significant by the HPC.

2 Relocation of contributing buildings and landmarks should only be considered as a last resort to

avoid demolition of the resource.

3 Buildings relocated within historic districts should generally follow the guidelines for New

Construction.

4 The proposed relocation site should not possess historical significance that would be adversely

affected by the intrusion of the structure.

5.2 Demolition

1 Delays are recommended for demolition or destruction if:

The building is a designated landmark, a primary building or site listed in the National

Register of Historic Places as pivotal or contributing to a historic district, or an outbuilding

considered as historically significant by the HPC.

The proposed demolition or destruction would have an adverse effect upon the overall

aesthetic character of a historic district, or to any other individual structure or site located in

the district.

The structure or site is of such architectural or historic interest that its demolition or

destruction would be detrimental to the public interest.

2 Any large trees (or other important landscape features) should be protected during the demolition

or destruction.

3 If the site is to remain vacant for more than 60 days, it should be cleared of debris and replanted.

4 Before any demolition activity is started, photographic documentation should be made of the

historic structure for future historical reference.


5 Work with interested parties to salvage usable architectural materials and features before

demolition occurs.


Section 6 Appendices

6.1 Resources for Historic Preservation Information

Local Resources

Hickory Historic Preservation Commission

PO Box 398

Hickory, NC 28603

www.hickorync.gov

(828) 323-7422

Hickory Landmarks Society

542 Second Street N.E.

PO Box 2341

Hickory, NC 28603

www.hickorylandmarks.org

(828) 322-4731

State Resources

State Historic Preservation Office

North Carolina Division of Archives and History

4617 Mail Service Center

Raleigh, NC 27699-4617

Survey and National Register Branch: (919) 807-6573

Restoration Branch: (919) 733-6547

www.hpo.ncdcr.gov

Preservation North Carolina

220 Fayetteville Street

Suite 200

P.O. Box 27644

Raleigh, NC 27611-7644

(919) 832-3652

www.presnc.org

National Resources

U.S. Department of the Interior

National Park Service

www.nps.gov/history

National Trust for Historic Preservation

1785 Massachusetts Ave. NW

Washington, DC 20036-2117

(800) 944-6847

www.preservationnation.org

http://www.hickorync.gov/

http://www.hickorylandmarks.org/

http://www.hpo.ncdcr.gov/

http://www.presnc.org/

http://www.nps.gov/history

http://www.preservationnation.org/


6.2 The Special Character of Hickory Historic Districts

Claremont

The Claremont Historic District neighborhood is located within the shadows of the Catawba Valley Arts

& Science Center (former Claremont Female College and later Claremont Central High School). The

Claremont Female College stood at the corner of 3rd Avenue NE and 3rd Street NE from 1883 to 1916,

and provided instruction in the classics, art, and music for the young women of Hickory. Upon the closing

of the female college in 1916, the way was cleared for the opening of a new public high school in 1925.

The high school served as the center of educational and cultural activities for the city for many years.

Another gathering place for local residents was Carolina Park. The seven acre arboretum was known for

its healing mineral springs by local residents and tourists alike. The park was purchased by the City in

1904 and with the help of the Hickory Civic League became the City’s first large park in 1909.

The Claremont Historic District is dominated by Queen Anne Style Structures, including the two finest

examples of this style in Hickory. Examples of Bungalows, Colonial Revival, and Tudor Revival are also

scattered throughout the district. The large building lots and grid pattern streets are similar to those in the

Oakwood Historic District Neighborhood. Claremont, like Oakwood, has been and is still home to

families that have played a vital role in the development of the City of Hickory.

The Claremont Neighborhood has been designated as a National Register Historic District as well as a

Local Historic District in order to protect it from the effects of modernization.


Kenworth

The Kenworth Historic District neighborhood is located in Southeast Hickory. This neighborhood has the

largest and most intact group of Bungalow style homes in Hickory. The Kenworth neighborhood was

Hickory’s first planned subdivision. It was planned by Charlotte Civil and Landscape Engineers, Holmes

Blair, Brent Drane, and Wilbur W. Smith and platted in 1913. These same individuals were instrumental

in the development of the Dilworth subdivision in Charlotte. The major characteristics of this area are the

similarity in the type of structures, the location of the structures on small building lots, and use of like

building materials. The historic district also includes Hickory’s second graded school and a neighborhood

church. The Kenworth neighborhood was the beginning for planned subdivisions in the City of Hickory

and as such has been designated a National Register and Local Historic District.


Oakwood

The Oakwood Historic District neighborhood is located in Northwest Hickory. Its development began in

the 1880s and 1890s as prominent Hickory businessmen and professionals built fine homes using the

latest architectural styles in an area away from the busy downtown. This area of sizeable building lots is

characterized by its examples of Queen Anne, Shingle, Colonial Revival, Spanish Mission Revival, Tudor

Revival and Bungalow Style homes. As you travel along its tree lined, grid pattern streets you notice the

similarities of these structures in relation to the distance they are back from the street, the dominance of 2-

story structures and the location of the porte-cocheres and garages in the back or side yards. The

Oakwood neighborhood has served a vital role in the development of Hickory as prominent Hickory

citizens such as state senators, mayors, doctors, lawyers and business leaders have lived and are living in

this Historic District Neighborhood. This neighborhood has been designated as a National Register

Historic District and a Local Historic District in order to preserve its distinctive character, architecture,

and associations with the City’s historical development.


6.3 Architectural Styles Commonly Found in Hickory Historic Districts

Queen Anne

The very name of this style suggested eclecticism to its originators. It was coined in England to describe

buildings that supposedly were inspired by the transitional architecture of the pre-Georgian period

architecture when classical ornament was grafted onto buildings of basically medieval form. The English

architect most closely associated with the Queen Anne style was Richard Norman Shaw (1831-1912),

whose sprawling manor houses were well known to American architects. The Queen Anne style played

on contrast of materials. First floors were often brick or stone; upper stories were stucco, clapboard or

decorative shingles, which were used frequently in the United States in place of the tiles popular in

England. Huge medieval type chimneys were common. Roofs were gabled or hipped and there were often

second story projections and corner turrets borrowed from French chateaux. Gable ends were ornamented

with half timbering or stylized relief decoration. Molded or specially shaped bricks were used as

decorative accents. Banks of casement windows were common and upper panes were often outlined with

stain-glass squares. Verandas and balconies opened houses to the outdoors.

Interior plans which had been moving

farther and farther from classical

symmetry, were given greater

freedom. The fully developed Queen

Anne plan featured the living hall – a

central living and circulation space

with both a fireplace and a grand

staircase. This space flowed freely

into other ample rooms. Rich, dark

woods in wall paneling and beamed

ceilings replaced the plaster ornament

and bright wallpapers of the Italianate

and Second Empire styles.

The first full blown American Queen

Anne building was Architect H. H.

Richardson’s Watts Sherman House

(1874) in Newport, Rhode Island. The

informality and amplitude of the

Queen Anne were perfect for summer

“cottages” of Newport, but the style,

especially with prominent corner turrets, was also the choice of bankers and physicians in small town

America until the turn of the century. The Queen Anne style also changed urban row house architecture.

The projecting bay front topped by a gable or pinnacle roof was found in cities from Boston to San

Francisco in the 1880s. Decorative brick pattern, molded bricks and colorful stained glass transoms

enlivened the face of the row house. Similar features were found in small commercial buildings of the

1880s and 1890s, but the picturesque efforts of the Queen Anne style were employed to best advantage in

substantial, free-standing residences.

Neo-Classical Revival (1900-1930)

The first part of the 20th century saw a revival of interest in the building styles of Europe and colonial

America. In part, the public was reacting to Victorian excesses in architecture. Typically, early twentieth

century houses were distinguished by a general symmetry in the arrangement of their parts and by the

exercise of restraint in architectural ornamentation.

Illustration by Greg Schauble


The Neo-Classical Revival style

emphasizes classical forms. Key

elements include round porch columns

inspired by the classical orders,

cornices with modillion blocks or

dentil molding, and pediments.

Colonial Revival houses employed the

basic plan and details of the originals

but on a much larger scale. The Tutor

Revival was a romantic interpretation

of the architecture of medieval

England.

Windows of the revival styles often

have multiple light divisions, and

shutters are common. The three part

Palladian window is found in

numerous variations. Entrances

feature solid paneled doors with

sidelights and transom lights. Instead

of a full front porch, there may be a front portico and a side porch with matching details.

Bungalow (1905-1930)

The style originated in California at the turn of the century, and spread eastward with the help of pattern

books. The Bungalow was an enormously popular house for the middle classes because of its practical

features. The long, narrow shape of most Bungalows was ideally suited to the 50-foot by 150-foot lots of

typical 1920s subdivisions. Narrow lots allowed the developer to take maximum advantage of the newly

available public infrastructure: paved

streets and sidewalks, water and sewer

lines, electrical and telephone services,

and public transportation.

Bungalows are normally single story

houses, although they can be one and a

half and even two stories. They usually

have gently sloping gable or hip roofs

with wide overhanging eaves. Roof beams

and rafters are almost always exposed. A

common Bungalow form has the gable

end facing the street, with the gable porch

roof set to one side. Occasionally the roof

will be brought forward to cover the front

porch. “Knee brackets” supporting the

roof are a common feature.

American Foursquare (1905-1930)

The term “American Foursquare” was

coined in recent years to make a category for the charming two-story, box-shaped houses that fill early

twentieth century two-story, box-shaped houses that fill early twentieth century neighborhoods in this

country. Like the Bungalow, the American Foursquare reflected a trend toward simplicity and efficiency

in residential construction. It was a practical house because it provided ample living space on its two

floors, requiring only a minimum amount of land.




Hip roofs with deep overhanging eaves are typical

of the American Foursquare. The eaves are either

open like the Bungalow, or closed if the house is

influenced by some other style. Construction

materials and detailing are often similar to the

Bungalow but details were borrowed from various

styles including the Neo-Classical, Colonial

Revival and even Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie

style.



6.4 Certificate of Appropriateness List of Work

A Certificate of Appropriateness is not necessary for Ordinary Maintenance and Repair of any exterior

architectural feature where there is no change in design, material, or appearance. In addition, a building

inspector or similar official may certify in writing that the reconstruction, alteration, restoration, moving

or demolition of an architectural feature is required to protect the public safety and to prevent and unsafe

or dangerous condition. Any change or alteration that involves a change in design, materials, or general

appearance requires a Certificate of Appropriateness.

Minor Work items require a Certificate of Appropriateness, which may be issued by the Historic

Preservation Staff if the work is consistent with the Design Review Guidelines. Staff may not deny an

application. Projects will be forwarded to the Historic Preservation Commission for review if staff judges

the proposed changes to be substantial, not consistent with the guidelines, or precedent setting in nature.

Generally minor work items will require building permits, zoning permits, or other approvals.

Major Work items generally involve a change in the appearance of a building or district and are more

substantial than maintenance or minor work projects. Major work projects require design review by the

Historic Preservation Commission and a Certificate of Appropriateness prior to issuance of other

development permits.

The following table lists the level of review that can be expected for most projects. The assignment of

work to a review category is a guideline, and staff may assign a given project a higher level of review

based on the factors described above. It is important to note that minor work items may only be approved

by staff when consistent with the guidelines. Projects that are inconsistent with the guidelines must be

forwarded to the Historic Preservation Commission for review.

Type of Work Minor

Work

Major

Work

Construction of a new primary structure X

Additions to a primary structure X

Demolition of any primary structure X

Relocation of structures X

Removal of any contributing part of a structure or appurtenant feature

where there will be a change in appearance. X

Removal of any non-contributing part of a structure or appurtenant

feature X

Alteration of Accessory Structures with no expansion of building

footprint X

New Accessory Structures with total area equal to or less than 144

square feet X

New Accessory Structures with total area greater than 144 feet X


Type of Work Minor

Work

Major

Work

Additions to Accessory Structures where the total area of the improved

structure will be equal to or less than 144 square feet X

Additions to Accessory Structures where the total area of the improved

structure will be greater than 144 square feet X

Demolition of Accessory Structures that are architecturally or

historically significant X

Demolition of Accessory Structures that are not architecturally or

historically significant with total area equal to or less than 144 square feet X

Demolition of Accessory Structures that are not architecturally or

historically significant with total area greater than 144 square feet X

Complying with Accessibility Requirements in such a way that character

defining features are preserved X

Replacement, removal or addition of character defining Architectural

Details and exterior surfaces where there will be a change in design or

materials from the original or existing details.

X

Construction/Alteration/Removal of Awnings X

Alteration of Carports/Porte Cocheres X

Construction/Alteration of Chimneys X

Construction of Code Required Stairways, Stairways, and Elevators X

Alteration/Construction/Removal of Decks X

Alteration/Construction/Removal of Driveways, Walkways, and

Pathways X

Alteration/Construction/Removal of Fences and Walls X

Alteration of exposed Foundations X

Alteration/Construction/Removal of Gutters and Downspouts X

Alteration/Construction/Removal of House Numbers and Property

Identification Plaques X

Alteration/Installation/Removal of Lighting Fixtures X


Type of Work Minor

Work

Major

Work

Alteration/Installation/Removal of Mailboxes X

Installation/Relocation/Removal of Mechanical Equipment such as

heating and air conditioning units X

Painting of previously unpainted masonry X

Construction of new Patios X

Alteration of existing Porches X

Alteration of Roof form X

Changes in Roofing Materials X

Alteration/Construction/Removal of Parking Lots X

Installation of Satellite Dishes and Television Antennas X

Construction/Alteration/Removal of Shutters X

Alteration/Installation/Removal of Small Cell (5G) Wireless Facilities X

Alteration/Construction/Removal of Stairs and Steps to the rear or an

inconspicuous side of the building X

Alteration/Construction/Removal of Stairs and Steps on any other

building elevation. X

Installation of Skylights X

Installation and alteration of Solar Panels or Solar Collectors X

Installation of Storm Windows and Storm Doors X

Installation and alteration of Swimming Pools X

Alteration of existing Window sashes, openings, or trim X

Installation of new Windows X

Installation of Window Air Conditioners X

Minor Changes to approved certificates of appropriateness X


Type of Work Minor

Work

Major

Work

Substantial Changes to approved certificates of appropriateness X


6.5 Definitions

Apron – An either plain or decorated piece of interior trim found directly below the stool of a window.

Apron sometime is used to describe any paneling found on the exterior of a building.

Awning – A roof-like covering of canvas, often adjustable, over a window, door, etc., to provide

protection against the sun, rain, and wind.

Baluster – One of a series of short pillars or other uprights that support a handrail or coping. Balusters

are often lathe-turned and vase-shaped in appearance, although they are also quite often simple square

posts or cutouts.

Balustrade – A series of balusters connected on top by coping on a handrail (toprail) and sometimes on

the bottom by a bottom rail; used on staircases, balconies, porches, etc.

Batten – A narrow board used to cover gaps between siding boards or sheathing; also used to brace and

stiffen boards joined edge to edge, as in a batten door.

Bay Window – A projecting bay with windows which extends floor space on the interior and usually

extends to ground level on the exterior.

Beveled Glass – Glass panes whose edges are ground and polished at a slight angle so that patterns are

created when panes are set adjacent to one another.

Blinds – External or internal louvered wooden shutter that exclude direct sunlight but admit light through

a window or door. This feature is found on many southern houses since its exterior placement intercepts

the sun’s heat before striking a window pane, thereby helping to cool the interior.

Board and Batten – Closely spaced wide boards or planes placed vertically with the joints covered by

thin wood strips called battens.

Bond – The pattern formed by the laying of brick in a regular manner in a wall for strength. Masonry

bond is essential to brickwork when wire reinforcement is not used. The following are different types of

bond:

Common bond – Also called American bond; a brick wall pattern in which the fifth, sixth, or

seventh course is a header course.

English bond – A brick pattern in which alternating courses are composed entirely of stretchers

or entirely of headers.

Flemish bond – A brick wall pattern in which every course is composed of alternating headers

and stretchers.

Running bond – Also called stretcher bond; a contemporary pattern of continuous stretcher

courses with no headers.

Bow Window – A curved bay window.


Brackets – Projecting support members found under eaves or other overhangs; may be plain or decorated.

Related terms: console, mutules, medallions, corbel.

Brick – Bricks are generally composed of clay mixed with some coarser materials such as silt or sand and

burnt, not baked, in a kiln. The common standard brick is now about 7 3/4 x 3 5/8 x 2 1/4 inches, but

many other sizes exist.

Brick veneer – An outer covering, usually for a wood frame building, consisting of a single layer of brick

attached to the load bearing walls with ties.

Building Height – is the vertical distance measured from the average elevation of the finished grade to

the topmost section of the roof.

Casement Window – A window which swings open along its entire length, usually on hinges fixed to the

sides of the opening into which the window is fitted.

Casing – The exposed trim molding, framing, or lining around a door or window; may be either flat or

molded.

Clapboard – Overlapping horizontal boards which are slightly thicker at the exposed bottom edge.

Clerestory Windows – Windows located relatively high up in a wall that often tend to form a continuous

band. This was a feature of many Gothic cathedrals and was later adapted to many of the Revival styles

found here.

Corner Block – A block placed at a corner of the casing around a wooden door or window frame, usually

treated ornamentally.

Cornice – The projection at the top of a wall; the top course or molding of a wall when it serves as a

crowning member.

Courses – Parallel layers of bricks, usually horizontal, including any mortar laid with them.

Crest – The ornamental work forming the top of a screen or wall, or the decorative railing running along

the ridge of a roof.

Cut Wood Shingles – Wood shingles nailed to the sheathing covering the frame of the building.

Examples of cut wood shingles:

a) Spaced and Cut

b) Fish Scale

c) Feather Cut

d) Imbricated and Beveled

e) Stagger Butt

Dormer Window – A vertical window projecting from the slope of a roof.


Double-hung Window – A window with two sashes which open by sliding up and down in a cased

frame.

Entablatures – The classical architecture and derivatives, the part of a building carried by the columns;

consists of cornice, frieze and architrave.

Etched Glass – Glass whose surface has been cut away with a strong acid or by abrasive action into a

decorative pattern.

Façade – The principal face or front elevation of a building.

Fanlight – An arched overdoor light whose form and tracery suggest an open fan.

Finial – An ornament that caps a gable, hip, pinnacle finial is vase-shaped. When a finial is used on a

gable with a barge board, it is generally terminated or other architectural feature. The term urn is used if

the with a pendant.

French Window – A long window reaching to floor level and opening in two leaves like a pair of doors.

Glue-chip Glass – A patterned glass with a surface resembling front crystals; common in turn-of-the-

century houses and bungalows.

Header – A brick laid across the thickness of a wall to bond together different layers of a wall; the

exposed end of a brick.

Jamb – The vertical sides of any opening, usually for a door or window.

Joints – The mortar between adjacent bricks or stones.

Lancet – A narrow window with a sharp pointed arch typical of Gothic architecture.

Lot Coverage – measure of density of developed land along each block front and for each lot.

Lunette – A semicircular opening.

Molded Surround – A decorate molded frame around an opening, such as a window door.

Moldings – A continuous decorative band; serves as an ornamental device on both the interior and

exterior of a building or structure; also often serves the function of obscuring the joint formed when two

surfaces meet.

Mortar – A mixture of portland cement, lime, putty, and sand in various proportions used for laying

bricks. Until the use of hard Portland cement became general, the softer lime-clay or lime-sand mortars

and masonry cement were common.

Mullion – A molding which forms part of the frame of a window sash and holding one side of a pane.

Oriel Window – A projecting bay with windows, generally on the second story of a building. An oriel is

adopted from Gothic forms.

Orientation – is the position and placement of a structure on a lot in relationship to the street.

Overdoor Light – A glazed area above a doorway and sometimes continued vertically down the sides.

Pendant – A hanging ornament; usually found projecting from the bottom of a construction member such

as a newel in a staircase, the bottom of a barge board, or underside of a wall overhand.

Pointing – Raking out deteriorated mortar joints and filling into them a surface mortar to repair the joint.

Portland cement – A very hard and strong hydraulic cement, one that hardens under water, made by

heating a slurry of clay and limestone in a kiln.

Sash – The framework into which glass panes are set.


Sandblasting – An abrasive and damaging method of cleaning bricks, masonry, or wood which involves

directing high –powered jets of sand against a surface.

Setback – is the distance from the edge of the right-of-way to the building front. A strong and

continuous streetscape is achieved by a uniform setback pattern.

Scale – is the size of unit’s construction and architectural details in relation to one another and to size of

humans. Scale is determined by the relationship of a building mass to open space.

Score – To cut a channel or groove in a material with a hand tool or a circular saw so as to interrupt the

visual effect of a surface or otherwise decorate it.

Shiplap or German Siding – Siding with a flat face which is beveled or grooved at the lap.

Shutters – Solid blinds on either side of a window; may be plain or decorated, operative or purely

ornamental, and on the inside or outside of a building.

Spacing – is the distance between adjacent buildings. A regular pattern of spacing adds strength and

continuity to the streetscape.

Stretcher – A brick that is laid with its length parallel to the length of a wall.

Stucco – An exterior finish, usually textured, composed of portland cement, lime, and sand, which are

mixed with water; older-type stucco may be mixed form softer masonry cement rather than portland

cement.

Waterblasting – Similar to sandblasting except that water is used as an abrasive; like sandblasting this

method is also damaging.

hickory historic preservation commission · jill patton, ward 6 . 4 design review guidelines...

Documents